Six Nations: Rob Howley hopeful Jonathan Davies could make Wales return against England

Wales centre Jonathan Davies is closing in on a return to Test rugby in their Six Nations clash with England.

Last Updated: 28/02/14 5:29pm

Jonathan Davies: Starts for the Scarlets against Munster on Saturday

Davies has seen just 40 minutes of competitive action since suffering a torn pectoral muscle during Wales' defeat to South Africa in November.

But the 25-year-old will feature for the Scarlets in their Pro12 fixture with Munster on Saturday, which could put him in contention for Wales' trip to Twickenham the following weekend.

"We are all aware of how talented Jon Davies is, and he flourished last summer (with the British and Irish Lions)," Wales assistant coach Rob Howley said.

"We just hope he can prove his fitness. We just have to see how he comes through the game on Saturday.

"He played against London Irish (on February 1) and there is always going to be a feeling that you are off the pace a bit.

"He has trained extremely well since the Irish game and this is a second match for him. Hopefully, fingers crossed, he will come through very well.

"It is good to have a quality player back in the selection mix. He is a huge talent who matured particularly well with the Lions and was fantastic in the championship last year.

"He has become a senior player within our leadership group, and the combination of him and Jamie has flourished. Having him available would be a huge boost for Wales."

Lock Alun-Wyn Jones, meanwhile, has not yet resumed training after missing the France game due to a foot infection, but Howley is hopeful he will be able to return to training on Saturday morning.

England announced their title credentials by defeating previously-unbeaten Ireland in their last outing, a result given added significance by the way Wales' next Six Nations opponents fought back from 10-3 adrift early in the second period.

"England at home are a very potent attacking side. I thought they played particularly well against Ireland," Howley said.

"You don't beat Ireland by not playing well. They went 10-3 down, but over the last year England have become more mature and learnt about getting momentum back in games.

"To come back and win against that Ireland side, they deserve great credit for that.

"Everyone is talking about 12 months ago (Wales beat England by a record 30-3 scoreline in Cardiff) but that has no relevance on this game.

"It's a Triple Crown game for them, they are at home. They want to win a Triple Crown and we want to remain in the championship (title) shout. That's what is on the line."